Registration of seafood buyers and sellers in the UK

The Registration of Fish Buyers and Sellers and Designation of Fish Auction Sites Regulations 2005 are designed to improve traceability and prevent the sale of illegally caught fish.

They apply to wild-caught fish, not aquaculture. Even without a financial transaction, any transfer of ownership must be registered with the relevant fisheries authority. This applies to fishers, fishmongers, wholesalers, restaurateurs and others. 

Click the link below to view the regulations in full:

Registration Requirement 

Buyers of first-sale fish must register with the relevant authorities in England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. If a business operates in multiple countries, only one application form is needed. The fisheries authority receiving the form will share it with the relevant departments. 

You must register as a buyer if you purchase first-sale fish directly from a fishing vessel or agent. However, you do not need to register if you buy fish at a designated auction site, fish merchant or wholesale market, as these are generally not considered first sales. You are also exempt if you purchase up to 30kg of fish for personal consumption.

For further information on selling your catch directly, check our guide to direct sales. 

Sellers of first-sale fish must also register and maintain accurate records of the fish they sell.

Sales Notes 

Sellers are required to submit sales notes containing information about the species, weight, price, and buyer details. These notes must be submitted electronically, usually within 24 hours of the transaction. 

Traceability 

Both buyers and sellers are responsible for ensuring fish is traceable from the point of catch to the final sale. Traceability is essential for preventing illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing activities.